Friedman proposes bills to aid Los Angeles wildfire victims

Rep. Laura Friedman of California has introduced two new bills aimed at helping wildfire victims in Los Angeles County. The proposed legislation focuses on improving access to federal aid and protecting disaster victims from price gouging. One bill, called the Don’t Penalize Victims Act, seeks to change current laws that reduce or deny Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) support for those who have received help from charitable sources like GoFundMe. Currently, FEMA considers such donations as duplicating benefits. Friedman’s bill aims to clarify that these donations should not affect eligibility for FEMA aid. Friedman expressed her hope for bipartisan support for the bill, which was co-introduced with Republican Rep. Mike Ezell. At a press conference, she emphasized the importance of allowing community support without penalties. The second bill, the Stop Disaster Price Gouging Act, would protect disaster victims from landlords and businesses that raise prices excessively after a declared disaster. Violators could face fines of $25,000, with proceeds directed to assist disaster victims. The bill would also give victims the power to take legal action against price gougers. California Attorney General Rob Bonta and the L.A. County Board of Supervisors have already warned against price gouging, taking steps to ensure accountability. While the second bill does not currently have a co-sponsor, Friedman is optimistic it will gain support. Friedman stated that these initiatives are necessary to support those recovering from disasters like the recent Palisades and Eaton fires, which have devastated thousands of homes and led to multiple fatalities. She believes the government must ensure that wildfire victims receive the help they need without additional burdens.